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Disney and the NBA Team Up for ‘Dunk the Halls’: A Real-Time Animated NBA Game on Christmas Day
This Christmas, Disney, ESPN, and the NBA are bringing a whole new kind of magic to basketball fans with Dunk the Halls, the first-ever real-time animated NBA game. Using cutting-edge technology from Sony’s Beyond Sports, this groundbreaking presentation will air on December 25 at noon ET as the New York Knicks host the San Antonio Spurs. The game will be broadcast on ESPN2, Disney+, and ESPN+, marking the first animated NBA game and the first NBA game to stream on Disney+.
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A Magical Setting
In this innovative special, the Knicks and Spurs will be reimagined as motion-enabled animated players and transported to the enchanting “Main Street, USA” in Magic Kingdom® Park. The iconic setting, complete with appearances from beloved Disney characters like Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, and Goofy, brings a whimsical twist to the game. Between thrilling plays, fans will see views of Cinderella’s Castle and other landmarks of Magic Kingdom®, blending the worlds of basketball and Disney magic.
A Festive Backstory
The story behind Dunk the Halls begins with Mickey Mouse making a Christmas wish to Santa Claus, asking to bring NBA players to Magic Kingdom® Park for a one-of-a-kind animated game. Thanks to Santa’s holiday magic—and some help from cutting-edge technology—the Knicks and Spurs are ready to play in a virtual recreation of Madison Square Garden, but with a Christmas twist.
Next-Level Technology
At the heart of Dunk the Halls is Sony’s Beyond Sports technology, which uses real-time visualization and Hawk-Eye Innovations’ optical tracking to bring every move of the live game to the animated stage. Every dunk, three-pointer, and pass in the real Knicks vs. Spurs matchup at Madison Square Garden will be mirrored live in the animated broadcast, creating an immersive and seamless experience for fans.
Halftime Fun and Festive Surprises
The magic doesn’t stop with the gameplay! At halftime, Disney characters will take the court for a special slam dunk contest, and Santa Claus will join in the fun by operating ESPN’s SkyCam. Throughout the game, fans can enjoy unique touches like Santa’s elves running the cameras, a Christmas tree decorating segment, and even a churro-eating contest starring Goofy. There’s also a chance it might snow on Main Street, USA—because what’s Christmas without a little Disney magic?
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Commentary with a Disney Twist
The animated broadcast will feature play-by-play commentary from Drew Carter and ESPN basketball analyst Monica McNutt, joined by the delightful Daisy Duck as the sideline reporter. Carter and McNutt will also appear as animated characters, using VR technology and Sony’s Virtual Commentator Technology to immerse themselves in the Main Street, USA setting.
A New Era of NBA Innovation
Dunk the Halls is the latest example of ESPN and the NBA’s commitment to innovative broadcasts. This partnership continues their history of creative alt-cast experiences, like 2021’s Marvel’s Arena of Heroes. By combining the storytelling power of Disney with the NBA’s love of the game, Dunk the Halls delivers a festive and unforgettable viewing experience.
Make sure to tune in on ESPN2, Disney+, or ESPN+ at noon ET on December 25 to catch this extraordinary presentation of the Knicks vs. Spurs game. Whether you’re a die-hard basketball fan, a Disney enthusiast, or just looking for some holiday cheer, Dunk the Halls is a Christmas gift you won’t want to miss!
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